It’s the slopes that make or break a skiing holiday, but you’re not going to be skiing all the time. A ski resort needs a range of other facilities, not least great places to eat.
The Saalbach-Hinterglemm has over fifty restaurants of various kinds. Most are excellent, but which are rated the best five in and around Saalbach?
Westernstadl Altachof
On the mountain just out of Saalbach to the west, the Westernstadl Altachof is a country and western themed restaurant, but done with a style and humour that saves it from being tacky. The menu, mainly Austrian cuisine, is varied and well cooked, and the waitresses combine efficiency with charm and humour. The tables are well enough spaced to keep noise at a reasonable level, and an added bonus is that you can watch the horses in an adjoining stable while you eat.
Maisalm
On the mountain to the north of resort, the Maisalm has outdoor seating with warm sheepskin covers on the chairs, allowing you to enjoy the stunning vista of the surrounding mountains and valley. Offering a mixture of Austrian and Italian food, it has everything from cheese and cold cuts to pizza, strudels to stockpot, all served quickly by friendly staff in traditional dress. They also serve a local beer that’s highly recommended.
Panorama Alm
As its name suggests, this is up on the slopes with beautiful views out over the valley. The Panorama Alm is run by a local couple with an emphasis on being family friendly, and it offers a children’s play area and a garden containing a small lake, as well as a museum of local farming tools. You can sit out on a terrace to take advantage of the view, and both the food — Austrian cuisine — and the service are excellent.
Schattberg Stube
Located at the top of the Schattberg lift, this is a cut above many lift-top restaurants. Offering table service, self-service and a bar area, its mainly Austrian food is excellent, and the restaurant gives all-round views of the Alpine scenery. Both service and value for money are good, whether you have a full meal, a snack or just a drink. Being easily accessible from the village, though, it’s very popular, so you need to arrive reasonably early for a table in the evening.
La Trattoria
Austrian food is excellent, but if you feel the need for a change, La Trattoria is a great Italian restaurant in Saalbach village. It offer a wide range of Italian dishes, from pasta to steaks to pizza, as well as Italian wine. The service is fast and unflapped, and the restaurant has a friendly atmosphere. It’s often crowded in the evening, so it may be advisable to book in advance.
